For the past two weeks Juan Herrero has been unable to use his own driveway due to a coverless manhole located in front of his garage.
The cover of the manhole situated outside his property became an easy target for thieves. Even though he reported the theft on the same day it was committed, he would soon learn that he was alone in his quest to have the cover replaced.
“On Friday, October 1, I reported the stolen cover and followed up on a daily basis. After various calls, emails and reference numbers, the cover still hasn’t been replaced. After a few days the local Joburg Water depot team arrived and told my wife that it’s our responsibility to replace the cover. This doesn’t make sense as it’s on municipal property.
“As a property owner I pay my rates and taxes, and expect to get a service from Joburg Water. This issue not only prevents me from using my car to go to work, but it also poses a great public health and safety risk. What if a child or animal walks past and falls in?
Juan claimed to have spoken with multiple call centre agents and supervisors, and has kept all names and references.
In a desperate attempt to have the situation resolved he recently escalated the matter to ward councillor René Benjamin as well as the communications executive for Joburg Water. He is still awaiting their response.
